Behind the Scenes : History of the Ulster Folk Museum
Set within the museum’s town area, this one-hour tour explores how the Ulster Folk Museum was founded and how it continues to evolve today. Trace the origins of the folk museum movement and meet the influential figures who shaped its vision.
Learn how the idea for a Folk Museum in Ulster first emerged in the 1920s, inspired by pioneering Scandinavian open-air museums. Discover how it was conceived both as a research institute and an ambitious project to preserve disappearing buildings, traditions and ways of life.
On the tour, you'll explore original and replica buildings throughout the Folk Museum and uncover the curatorial choices made by early museum staff - why certain buildings were saved, how they were reconstructed, and how the layout of the museum shapes the stories it tells. You'll also meet our makers working at the Ulster Folk Museum in the present day, reawakening traditional skills for future generations to come.
Important information
- Suitable for 16 years+
- This event will be outside and will involve some slow paced walking, please wear appropriate clothing and footwear
- If you have any accessibility concerns or requests please contact info@nationalmuseumsni.org in advance
- Your ticket for this event includes general admission to the Ulster Folk Museum
Ticket options
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Set within the museum’s town area, this one-hour tour explores how the Ulster Folk Museum was founded and how it continues to evolve today. Trace the origins of the folk museum movement and meet the influential figures who shaped its vision.
Learn how the idea for a Folk Museum in Ulster first emerged in the 1920s, inspired by pioneering Scandinavian open-air museums. Discover how it was conceived both as a research institute and an ambitious project to preserve disappearing buildings, traditions and ways of life.
On the tour, you'll explore original and replica buildings throughout the Folk Museum and uncover the curatorial choices made by early museum staff - why certain buildings were saved, how they were reconstructed, and how the layout of the museum shapes the stories it tells. You'll also meet our makers working at the Ulster Folk Museum in the present day, reawakening traditional skills for future generations to come.
Important information
- Suitable for 16 years+
- This event will be outside and will involve some slow paced walking, please wear appropriate clothing and footwear
- If you have any accessibility concerns or requests please contact info@nationalmuseumsni.org in advance
- Your ticket for this event includes general admission to the Ulster Folk Museum
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